HomeMy WebLinkAboutCouncil Nov 5 2025Whatcom County
Council
COUNTY COURTHOUSE
311 Grand Avenue, Ste #105
Bellingham, WA 98225-4038
(360)778-5010
Minutes - Final
Wednesday, November 5, 2025
6PM
Hybrid Meeting - Council Chambers
HYBRID MEETING (PARTICIPATE IN -PERSON, SEE REMOTE JOIN
INSTRUCTIONS AT www.whatcomcounty.us/joinvirtualcouncil, OR CALL
360.778.5010); AGENDA REVISED 11.4.2025
COUNCILMEMBERS
Barry Buchanan
Tyler Byrd
Todd Donovan
Ben Elenbaas
Kaylee Galloway
Jon Scanlon
Mark Stremler
CLERK OF THE COUNCIL
Cathy Halka, AICP, CMC
Council Minutes - Final November 5, 2025
COUNTY COUNCIL
CALL TO ORDER
Council Chair Kaylee Galloway called the meeting to order at 6:03 p.m. in a
hybrid meeting.
ROLL CALL
Present: 7 - Barry Buchanan, Tyler Byrd, Todd Donovan, Ben Elenbaas, Kaylee Galloway,
Jon Scanlon, and Mark Stremler
FLAG SALUTE
ANNOUNCEMENTS
COUNTY EXECUTIVE'S REPORT
There was no report.
MINUTES CONSENT
Buchanan moved to accept the minutes consent items. The motion was
seconded by Scanlon (see votes on individual items below).
1. MIN2025-070 Committee of the Whole for October 21, 2025
Buchanan moved and Scanlon seconded that the Minutes Consent be
APPROVED BY CONSENT. The motion carried by the following vote:
Aye: 7 - Buchanan, Byrd, Donovan, Elenbaas, Galloway, Scanlon, and Stremler
Nay: 0
2. MIN2025-071 Regular County Council for October 21, 2025
Buchanan moved and Scanlon seconded that the Minutes Consent be
APPROVED BY CONSENT. The motion carried by the following vote:
Aye: 7 - Buchanan, Byrd, Donovan, Elenbaas, Galloway, Scanlon, and Stremler
Nay: 0
INTRODUCTION ITEMS
Byrd moved to introduce items one through five. The motion was seconded
by Buchanan.
Galloway stated it is Council's intent that by introducing the three alternate
levy ordinances/resolution (AB2025-783, AB2025-784, and AB2025-788)
this evening, they would be setting them on a concurrent path with the other
budget items, which would be to have them back in committee for
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discussion on November 18 and then up for Council's final consideration
on December 2nd.
Donovan spoke about the alternate versions and Councilmembers voted on
the Introduction items (see votes on individual items below).
1. AB2025-749 Ordinance repealing Whatcom County Code 2.170, Forest Resilience Task Force
Byrd moved and Buchanan seconded that the Ordinance be INTRODUCED.
The motion carried by the following vote:
Aye: 7 - Buchanan, Byrd, Donovan, Elenbaas, Galloway, Scanlon, and Stremler
Nay: 0
2. AB2025-756 Ordinance establishing the Opioid Settlement Fund and establishing a budget for the
Opioid Settlement Fund
Byrd moved and Buchanan seconded that the Ordinance be INTRODUCED.
The motion carried by the following vote:
Aye: 7 - Buchanan, Byrd, Donovan, Elenbaas, Galloway, Scanlon, and Stremler
Nay: 0
3. AB2025-783 Ordinance authorizing the levy of taxes for County Road purposes for 2026
Byrd moved and Buchanan seconded that the Ordinance Requiring a Public
Hearing be INTRODUCED FOR PUBLIC HEARING. The motion carried
by the following vote:
Aye: 7 - Buchanan, Byrd, Donovan, Elenbaas, Galloway, Scanlon, and Stremler
Nay: 0
Motion approved to Introduce for Public Hearing on December 2nd and schedule for Committee of the Whole
discussion on November 18.
4. AB2025-784 Resolution authorizing the levy of taxes for the Whatcom County Flood Control Zone
District for 2026 (Council acting as the Flood Control Zone District Board of
Supervisors)
Byrd moved and Buchanan seconded that the Resolution (FCZDBS)
Requiring a Public Hearing be INTRODUCED FOR PUBLIC HEARING.
The motion carried by the following vote:
Aye: 7 - Buchanan, Byrd, Donovan, Elenbaas, Galloway, Scanlon, and Stremler
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Nay: 0
Motion approved to Introduce for Public Hearing on December 2nd and schedule for Committee of the Whole
discussion on November 18.
5. AB2025-788 Ordinance authorizing the levy of taxes for County and State purposes in Whatcom
County, Washington, for the year of 2026
Byrd moved and Buchanan seconded that the Ordinance Requiring a Public
Hearing be INTRODUCED FOR PUBLIC HEARING. The motion carried
by the following vote:
Aye: 7 - Buchanan, Byrd, Donovan, Elenbaas, Galloway, Scanlon, and Stremler
Nay: 0
Motion approved to Introduce for Public Hearing on December 2nd and schedule for Committee of the Whole
discussion on November 18.
PUBLIC HEARINGS
COMBINED PUBLIC HEARING ON COUNTY BUDGET ITEMS
Councilmembers held a combined public hearing on A132025-707,
AB2025-719, AB2025-721, AB2025-723, and A132025-725. See minutes
under A132025-707.
Galloway read items 1-5 under this header into the record.
1. AB2025-707 Ordinance amending the 2026 Whatcom County Budget, request no. 1, in the amount
of $20,970,606
Kayla Schott-Bresler, Executive's Office, stated she was available to answer
questions.
Scanlon read from the suggested amendments (on file as "Substitute
Councilmember Amendments") about his suggestions to use $200,000 of
the Community Priorities Fund to create a strategic plan and metrics for the
county, and to add a note after Exhibit A regarding including funding and
staffing levels necessary to complete the Community Health Assessment.
Byrd stated he thinks those amendments would be substantive changes to
the budget document that was noticed for public comment. He does not
think they should be going over proposed changes at this time since they are
not included in the document that is in front of them.
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Kimberly Thulin, Prosecuting Attorney's Office, stated if the plan is just to
advise those who are here to make comments, just so they are aware and so
they have the opportunity to come back and comment if there is a proposal
that is substantive, then it is procedurally fine.
Councilmembers and Thulin discussed that the plan is to hold the public
hearing open because they will be taking final action on the budget on
December 2nd, and that they could present the proposed amendments so the
public can speak to them.
Elenbaas spoke about his proposal that they cut contracts for third -party
facilitators for boards and commissions and move those funds to other
budget areas in order to not have to raise taxes.
Stremler spoke about his proposal to cut $244,000 from the Parks &
Recreation Department budget in the General Fund, currently allocated for
extra help for parks facilities and Lake Whatcom forest lands, and add
$244,000 for the Whatcom County Food Bank Network.
Donovan spoke about his proposal to move $500,000 from the Community
Priorities Fund (capital reserves) to fund the Whatcom County Food Bank
Network, and he spoke about the budget in general.
Galloway opened the combined Public Hearing and the following people
spoke:
• Adam Bellingar
• John Westerfield
• Lauren Carlson (and mother)
• RobRoy Graham
• Amy Steele
• Daniel Burdick
• James Hallet
• Rosa Figueroa
• Krisinda Plenkovich
• Ralph Weiche
• Sarah VanWoerden
• Brian Atkins (on behalf of Dave Zoeller)
• Hannah Ordos
• Lyle Sorenson
• Henry Fisher
• Hannah Palm
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Galloway did not close the hearing.
Councilmembers then considered each public hearing agenda bill
separately. See below under SEPARATE CONSIDERATION OF PUBLIC
HEARING ITEMS.
Enactment No: ORD 2025-055
2. AB2025-719 Ordinance authorizing the levy of taxes for Conservation Futures purposes for 2026
Enactment No: ORD 2025-056
3. AB2025-721 Ordinance authorizing the levy of taxes for County Road purposes for 2026
Enactment No: ORD 2025-057
4. AB2025-723 Ordinance authorizing the levy of taxes for countywide emergency medical purposes
for 2026
Enactment No: ORD 2025-058
5. AB2025-725 Ordinance authorizing the levy of taxes for County and State purposes in Whatcom
County, Washington, for the year of 2026
Enactment No: ORD 2025-059
Public testimony was received on the five files above. See Notes under AB2025-707.
SEPARATE CONSIDERATION OF PUBLIC HEARING ITEMS
1. AB2025-707 Ordinance amending the 2026 Whatcom County Budget, request no. 1, in the amount
of $20,970,606
Donovan moved and Elenbaas seconded to hold AB2025-707 and keep the
public hearing open, to be continued on December 2nd, and to place this
item in Committee of the Whole on November 18th for discussion.
Councilmembers discussed the item with the following people:
• Kimberly Thulin, Prosecuting Attorney's Office
• Aly Pennucci, Executive's Office
Councilmembers and the speakers discussed whether any of the proposed
councilmember amendments are substantive and what constitutes a
substantive change, if they can take action on proposed amendments if the
intention is to hold the agenda items, how they can give staff time to make
adjustments to the budget documents after voting on amendments, and
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maybe starting Committee of the Whole in the morning on November 18th
as opposed to the afternoon to prioritize the budget discussion.
Donovan's motion carried by the following vote:
Aye: 7 - Buchanan, Byrd, Donovan, Elenbaas, Galloway, Scanlon, and Stremler
Nay: 0
Enactment No: ORD 2025-055
Motion approved 7-0 to hold AB2025-707 and keep the public hearing open, to be continued on December 2nd,
and to place this item in Committee of the Whole on November 18th for discussion.
2. AB2025-719 Ordinance authorizing the levy of taxes for Conservation Futures purposes for 2026
Donovan moved and Galloway seconded that the ordinance be ADOPTED.
Cathy Halka, Clerk of the Council, answered whether they have to approve
all of these budget -related ordinances and resolutions at the same time, and
stated nothing requires that they approve them as a group.
Aly Pennucci, Executive's Office, answered whether Conservation Futures
was part of the executive's amendments presented today. She stated it was
part of the technical amendments, but she believes that the state law
requires, because we do budget -based levies, that Council has to adopt the
budget before they adopt any tax levies. So that is why they all run together,
because they approve the expenses and then they approve the revenues.
Donovan withdrew his motion.
Elenbaas stated he would prefer to adopt them (individually) at the same
time anyway so that the impact to the taxpayer is taken into account as a
whole.
Councilmembers discussed that the only separate budget is the Flood
Control Zone District.
Galloway moved and Donovan seconded to hold AB2025-719 and keep the
public hearing open, to be continued on December 2nd, and to place this item
in Committee of the Whole on November 18th for discussion. The motion
carried by the following vote:
Aye: 7 - Buchanan, Byrd, Donovan, Elenbaas, Galloway, Scanlon, and Stremler
Nay: 0
Enactment No: ORD 2025-056
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Motion approved 7-0 to hold AB2025-719 and keep the public hearing open, to be continued on December 2nd,
and to place this item in Committee of the Whole on November 18th for discussion.
3. AB2025-721 Ordinance authorizing the levy of taxes for County Road purposes for 2026
Galloway moved and Donovan seconded to hold AB2025-721 and keep the
public hearing open, to be continued on December 2nd, and to place this item
in Committee of the Whole on November 18th for discussion. The motion
carried by the following vote:
Aye: 7 - Buchanan, Byrd, Donovan, Elenbaas, Galloway, Scanlon, and Stremler
Nay: 0
Enactment No: ORD 2025-057
Motion approved 7-0 to hold AB2025-721 and keep the public hearing open, to be continued on December 2nd,
and to place this item in Committee of the Whole on November 18th for discussion.
4. AB2025-723 Ordinance authorizing the levy of taxes for countywide emergency medical purposes
for 2026
Galloway moved and Donovan seconded to hold AB2025-723 and keep the
public hearing open, to be continued on December 2nd, and to place this item
in Committee of the Whole on November 18th for discussion. The motion
carried by the following vote:
Aye: 7 - Buchanan, Byrd, Donovan, Elenbaas, Galloway, Scanlon, and Stremler
Nay: 0
Enactment No: ORD 2025-058
Motion approved 7-0 to hold AB2025-723 and keep the public hearing open, to be continued on December 2nd,
and to place this item in Committee of the Whole on November 18th for discussion.
5. AB2025-725 Ordinance authorizing the levy of taxes for County and State purposes in Whatcom
County, Washington, for the year of 2026
Galloway moved and Scanlon seconded to hold AB2025-725 and keep the
public hearing open, to be continued on December 2nd, and to place this item
in Committee of the Whole on November 18th for discussion. The motion
carried by the following vote:
Aye: 7 - Buchanan, Byrd, Donovan, Elenbaas, Galloway, Scanlon, and Stremler
Nay: 0
Enactment No: ORD 2025-059
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Motion approved 7-0 to hold AB2025-725 and keep the public hearing open, to be continued on December 2nd,
and to place this item in Committee of the Whole on November 18th for discussion.
COMBINED PUBLIC HEARING ON FCZDBS BUDGET ITEMS
Councilmembers held a combined public hearing on AB2025-711 and
AB2025-709.
Galloway opened the Public Hearing and no one spoke.
6. AB2025-711 Resolution adopting 2026 budget for the Whatcom County Flood Control Zone
District and Subzones (Council acting as the Flood Control Zone District Board of
Supervisors)
See minutes under the header above for this hearing, and the header below
for separate consideration of this item.
Enactment No: RES 2025-042
7. AB2025-709 Resolution authorizing the levy of taxes for the Whatcom County Flood Control Zone
District for 2026 (Council acting as the Flood Control Zone District Board of
Supervisors)
See minutes under the header above for this hearing, and the header below
for separate consideration of this item.
Public testimony was received on the two files above.
SEPARATE CONSIDERATION OF PUBLIC HEARING ITEMS
6. AB2025-711 Resolution adopting 2026 budget for the Whatcom County Flood Control Zone
District and Subzones (Council acting as the Flood Control Zone District Board of
Supervisors)
Galloway moved and Buchanan seconded to hold AB2025-711 and keep the
public hearing open, to be continued on December 2nd, and to place this
item in Committee of the Whole on November 18th for discussion.
Councilmembers discussed the motion.
Galloway's motion to hold AB2025-711 and keep the public hearing open, to
be continued on December 2nd, and to place this item in Committee of the
Whole on November 18th for discussion carried by the following vote:
Aye: 7 - Buchanan, Byrd, Donovan, Elenbaas, Galloway, Scanlon, and Stremler
Nay: 0
Enactment No: RES 2025-042
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Motion approved 7-0 to hold AB2025-711 and keep the public hearing open, to be continued on December 2nd,
and to place this item in Committee of the Whole on November 18th for discussion.
7. AB2025-709 Resolution authorizing the levy of taxes for the Whatcom County Flood Control Zone
District for 2026 (Council acting as the Flood Control Zone District Board of
Supervisors)
Galloway moved and Donovan seconded to hold AB2025-709 and keep the
public hearing open, to be continued on December 2nd, and to place this item
in Committee of the Whole on November 18th for discussion. The motion
carried by the following vote:
Aye: 7 - Buchanan, Byrd, Donovan, Elenbaas, Galloway, Scanlon, and Stremler
Nay: 0
Motion approved 7-0 to hold AB2025-709 and keep the public hearing open, to be continued on December 2nd,
and to place this item in Committee of the Whole on November 18th for discussion.
OTHER PUBLIC HEARINGS
8. AB2025-676 Resolution adopting the 2026-2031 Six -Year Water Resources Improvement
Program (WRIP) (Council acting as the Whatcom County Flood Control Zone
District Board of Supervisors)
Galloway opened the Public Hearing and hearing no one, closed the Public
Hearing.
Buchanan moved and Scanlon seconded that the Resolution (FCZDBS)
Requiring a Public Hearing be APPROVED.
Donovan spoke against the motion and stated the capital planning has
virtually all of the projects in Lake Whatcom funded by the Lake Whatcom
Stormwater Utility and not the stormwater funding that they used to get
through the Flood Fund. They set up the utility to provide additional funding
for Whatcom County's efforts to clean up and protect Lake Whatcom water
quality, but they have shifted the money from the flood fund away from
those programs.
The following people responded to Donovan's concerns:
• Aly Pennucci, Executive's Office
• Elizabeth Kosa, Public Works Department Director
• Randy Rydel, Administrative Services Department Finance Director
They and councilmembers discussed that one of the reasons is because they
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are being extra cautious with Real Estate Excise Tax (REET), which is one
of the other funding sources that typically supports these projects, until
decisions can be made about some of the major County Facilities, what the
impact would be if they decide not to take the one percent Road Fund
increase (which also funds some of these projects), that they would look at
anything that draws from the Road Fund (which includes the WRIP),
whether the same thing is true for the Birch Bay Watershed and Aquatic
Resources Management (BBWARM) District, that the stormwater dollars
are gone, whether there is equity in how the tax dollars are being used
across the county, and the concern that they are taking money out of the
watershed and putting it in other places and that money that was previously
going to the watershed is going to the flood fund to do other things now and
not to Lake Whatcom.
Buchanan's motion that the Resolution (FCZDBS) Requiring a Public Hearing
be APPROVED carried by the following vote:
Aye: 5 - Buchanan, Byrd, Galloway, Scanlon, and Stremler
Nay: 2 - Donovan, and Elenbaas
OPEN SESSION
Enactment No: RES 2025-036
The following people spoke:
• Adam Bellingar
• John Westerfield
• Todd Damon
• Jayson Loreen
• Samuel Madrid
• Rick Kiene
• Magnus Gervol
• Booker Laughlin
• James Triplett
• Austin Streubel
• Caleb Erickson
• Donnell Tanksley, Sheriff
• Steve Harris
• Mary Kay Decker
• Lyle Sorenson
• Barbara Powers
• Natalie Chavez
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Hearing no one else, Galloway closed the Open Session.
CONSENT AGENDA
(From Council Finance and Administrative Services Committee)
Donovan reported for the Finance and Administrative Services Committee
and moved to approve Consent Agenda item numbers 1, 2, 4, 5, 7-14, and
16-21 (voting on item numbers 3, 6, and 15 separately).
Elenbaas requested to also consider 16 separately.
Galloway stated that item 21 has an item title revision (and is substitute).
Elenbaas spoke about item number 19 and the amount being funded for a
lawsuit.
Councilmembers voted on item numbers 1, 2, 4, 5, 7-14, and 17-21 (see
votes on individual items below).
1. AB2025-740 Request authorization for the County Executive to enter into a contract between
Whatcom County and Parametrix, Inc. to develop a comprehensive Subwatershed
Master Plan as an addendum to the 2008 Lake Whatcom Comprehensive
Stormwater Plan, in the amount of $298,741
Donovan reported for the Finance and Administrative Services Committee
and moved that the Contract be AUTHORIZED BY CONSENT. The motion
carried by the following vote:
Aye: 7 - Buchanan, Byrd, Donovan, Elenbaas, Galloway, Scanlon, and Stremler
Nay: 0
2. AB2025-741 Request authorization for the County Executive to enter into an interlocal agreement
between Whatcom County and City of Bellingham to provide partial funding for
Whatcom County's 2025-2026 Severe Weather Shelter, in the amount of $100,000
Donovan reported for the Finance and Administrative Services Committee
and moved that the Interlocal be AUTHORIZED BY CONSENT. The motion
carried by the following vote:
Aye: 7 - Buchanan, Byrd, Donovan, Elenbaas, Galloway, Scanlon, and Stremler
Nay: 0
3. AB2025-742 Request authorization for the County Executive to enter into an interlocal agreement
between Whatcom County and Whatcom Fire Protection District 7 for the provision
of the Paramedic Training Program, in the amount of $345,537
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THIS ITEM WAS CONSIDERED SEPARATELY BELOW.
4. AB2025-743 Request authorization for the County Executive to enter into an interlocal agreement
between Whatcom County and Marysville Fire District for the provision of the
paramedic training program, in the amount of $136,200
Donovan reported for the Finance and Administrative Services Committee
and moved that the Interlocal be AUTHORIZED BY CONSENT. The motion
carried by the following vote:
Aye: 7 - Buchanan, Byrd, Donovan, Elenbaas, Galloway, Scanlon, and Stremler
Nay: 0
5. AB2025-744 Request authorization for the County Executive to enter into an interlocal agreement
between Whatcom County and Camano Fire and Rescue for the provision of the
paramedic training program, in the amount of $55,600
Donovan reported for the Finance and Administrative Services Committee
and moved that the Interlocal be AUTHORIZED BY CONSENT. The motion
carried by the following vote:
Aye: 7 - Buchanan, Byrd, Donovan, Elenbaas, Galloway, Scanlon, and Stremler
Nay: 0
6. AB2025-747 Request authorization for the County Executive to enter into a contract between
Whatcom County and Geneva Consulting Services to support coordination of the
Whatcom Local Integrating Organization (LIO), in the amount of $291,068 (Council
acting as the Whatcom County Flood Control Zone District Board of Supervisors)
THIS ITEM WAS CONSIDERED SEPARATELY BELOW.
7. AB2025-751 Request authorization for the County Executive to enter into a contract between
Whatcom County and Compass Health to lease space within the crisis stabilization
center for the provision of mental health treatment services, in the amount of $24,000
Donovan reported for the Finance and Administrative Services Committee
and moved that the Agreement be AUTHORIZED BY CONSENT. The
motion carried by the following vote:
Aye: 7 - Buchanan, Byrd, Donovan, Elenbaas, Galloway, Scanlon, and Stremler
Nay: 0
8. AB2025-752 Request authorization for the County Executive to enter into an interlocal agreement
between Whatcom County and San Juan County to provide Veteran Service Officer
services to San Juan County resident veterans, in the amount of $10,000
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Donovan reported for the Finance and Administrative Services Committee
and moved that the Interlocal be AUTHORIZED BY CONSENT. The motion
carried by the following vote:
Aye: 7 - Buchanan, Byrd, Donovan, Elenbaas, Galloway, Scanlon, and Stremler
Nay: 0
9. AB2025-753 Request authorization for the County Executive to enter into a grant agreement
between Whatcom County and the Washington State Department of Ecology to fund
administrative support and action projects for the Whatcom County Marine
Resources Committee (MRC), in the amount of $252,000 (Council acting as the
Whatcom County Flood Control Zone District Board of Supervisors)
Donovan reported for the Finance and Administrative Services Committee
and moved that the Contract (FCZDBS) be AUTHORIZED BY CONSENT.
The motion carried by the following vote:
Aye: 7 - Buchanan, Byrd, Donovan, Elenbaas, Galloway, Scanlon, and Stremler
Nay: 0
10. AB2025-758 Request authorization for the County Executive to enter into a contract between
Whatcom County and Pioneer Human Services to lease space within the crisis
stabilization center for the provision of withdrawal management services, in the
amount of $24,000
Donovan reported for the Finance and Administrative Services Committee
and moved that the Agreement be AUTHORIZED BY CONSENT. The
motion carried by the following vote:
Aye: 7 - Buchanan, Byrd, Donovan, Elenbaas, Galloway, Scanlon, and Stremler
Nay: 0
11. AB2025-759 Request authorization for the County Executive to enter into an interlocal agreement
between Whatcom County and the Washington State Department of Commerce to
receive CDBG (Community Development Block Grant) funds in support of public
services, in the amount of $130,000
Donovan reported for the Finance and Administrative Services Committee
and moved that the Interlocal be AUTHORIZED BY CONSENT. The motion
carried by the following vote:
Aye: 7 - Buchanan, Byrd, Donovan, Elenbaas, Galloway, Scanlon, and Stremler
Nay: 0
12. AB2025-760 Request authorization for the County Executive to enter into a contract between
Whatcom County and Pioneer Human Services to lease space within the crisis
stabilization center for the provision of food services, in the amount of $24,000
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Donovan reported for the Finance and Administrative Services Committee
and moved that the Agreement be AUTHORIZED BY CONSENT. The
motion carried by the following vote:
Aye: 7 - Buchanan, Byrd, Donovan, Elenbaas, Galloway, Scanlon, and Stremler
Nay: 0
13. AB2025-762 Request authorization for the County Executive to enter into a contract amendment
between Whatcom County and Catholic Community Services to provide permanent
supportive housing services at Francis Place, in the amount of $555,446, for a total
amended contract amount of $833,169
Donovan reported for the Finance and Administrative Services Committee
and moved that the Contract be AUTHORIZED BY CONSENT. The motion
carried by the following vote:
Aye: 7 - Buchanan, Byrd, Donovan, Elenbaas, Galloway, Scanlon, and Stremler
Nay: 0
14. AB2025-763 Request authorization for the County Executive to enter into an interlocal cost -share
agreement between Whatcom County and the Laurel Watershed Improvement
District (LWID) for the Neevel Levee Cougar Creek Fish Passage Project, in the
amount of $10,000 (Council acting as the Whatcom County Flood Control Zone
District Board of Supervisors)
Donovan reported for the Finance and Administrative Services Committee
and moved that the Contract (FCZDBS) be AUTHORIZED BY CONSENT.
The motion carried by the following vote:
Aye: 7 - Buchanan, Byrd, Donovan, Elenbaas, Galloway, Scanlon, and Stremler
Nay: 0
15. AB2025-764 Request authorization for the County Executive to enter into an interlocal agreement
between Whatcom County and the City of Bellingham for the provision of the
paramedic training program, in the amount of $1,008,442
THIS ITEM WAS CONSIDERED SEPARATELY BELOW.
16. AB2025-765 Request authorization for the County Executive to enter into a grant agreement
between Whatcom County and Washington State Recreation and Conservation
Office Washington Wildlife and Recreation Forestland Preservation grant program for
the acquisition of a forestry conservation easement on the Canyon Creek Forest
property through the Conservation Easement Program (CEP) in the amount of
$500,000
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THIS ITEM WAS CONSIDERED SEPARATELY BELOW.
17. AB2025-766 Request authorization for the County Executive to enter into an agreement between
Whatcom County and Opportunity Council to pass through CDBG (Community
Development Block Grant) funds for the delivery of public services to low and
moderate income residents in the amount of $126,500
Donovan reported for the Finance and Administrative Services Committee
and moved that the Contract be AUTHORIZED BY CONSENT. The motion
carried by the following vote:
Aye: 7 - Buchanan, Byrd, Donovan, Elenbaas, Galloway, Scanlon, and Stremler
Nay: 0
18. AB2025-767 Request authorization for the County Executive to enter into an amendment to the
Regional Economic Partnership Interlocal Cooperation Agreement between Whatcom
County, the Port of Bellingham, and the City of Bellingham to restructure financial
commitments for fiscal years 2026-2027, with no change to Whatcom County's
financial contribution
Donovan reported for the Finance and Administrative Services Committee
and moved that the Interlocal be AUTHORIZED BY CONSENT. The motion
carried by the following vote:
Aye: 7 - Buchanan, Byrd, Donovan, Elenbaas, Galloway, Scanlon, and Stremler
Nay: 0
19. AB2025-775 Request authorization for the County Executive to enter into an interlocal agreement
between Whatcom County and the Washington State Department of Commerce for a
grant to Whatcom County through The Local Community Projects Program for
Nooksack Water Adjudication Facility Needs, in the amount of $1,212,500
Donovan reported for the Finance and Administrative Services Committee
and moved that the Interlocal be AUTHORIZED BY CONSENT. The motion
carried by the following vote:
Aye: 7 - Buchanan, Byrd, Donovan, Elenbaas, Galloway, Scanlon, and Stremler
Nay: 0
20. AB2025-777 Request authorization for the County Executive to enter into a three-year agreement,
using the National Association of State Procurement Officials (NASPO) ValuePoint
Master Agreement #AR2474 and State of Washington Participating Addendum
#05116, between Whatcom County and Century Link Communications, LLC dba
Lumen Technologies Group (CenturyLink) for telecommunication access lines and
services, in the amount of $144,849
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Donovan reported for the Finance and Administrative Services Committee
and moved that the Contract be AUTHORIZED BY CONSENT. The motion
carried by the following vote:
Aye: 7 - Buchanan, Byrd, Donovan, Elenbaas, Galloway, Scanlon, and Stremler
Nay: 0
21. AB2025-787 Request authorization for the County Executive to enter into a contract between
Whatcom County and Euna Solutions, Inc. to purchase budget and reporting software
for the financial system in the amount of $441,159.37
Donovan reported for the Finance and Administrative Services Committee
and moved that the SUBSTITUTE Contract be AUTHORIZED BY
CONSENT. The motion carried by the following vote:
Aye: 7 - Buchanan, Byrd, Donovan, Elenbaas, Galloway, Scanlon, and Stremler
Nay: 0
CONSENT AGENDA CONSIDERED SEPARATELY
3. AB2025-742 Request authorization for the County Executive to enter into an interlocal agreement
between Whatcom County and Whatcom Fire Protection District 7 for the provision
of the Paramedic Training Program, in the amount of $345,537
Donovan reported for the Finance and Administrative Services Committee
and moved that the Interlocal be AUTHORIZED. The motion carried by the
following vote:
Aye: 5 - Buchanan, Donovan, Elenbaas, Galloway, and Scanlon
Nay: 2 - Byrd, and Stremler
6. AB2025-747 Request authorization for the County Executive to enter into a contract between
Whatcom County and Geneva Consulting Services to support coordination of the
Whatcom Local Integrating Organization (LIO), in the amount of $291,068 (Council
acting as the Whatcom County Flood Control Zone District Board of Supervisors)
Donovan reported for the Finance and Administrative Services Committee
and moved that the Contract (FCZDBS) be AUTHORIZED. The motion
carried by the following vote:
Aye: 6 - Buchanan, Donovan, Elenbaas, Galloway, Scanlon, and Stremler
Nay: 1 - Byrd
15. AB2025-764 Request authorization for the County Executive to enter into an interlocal agreement
between Whatcom County and the City of Bellingham for the provision of the
paramedic training program, in the amount of $1,008,442
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Donovan reported for the Finance and Administrative Services Committee
and moved that the Interlocal be AUTHORIZED. The motion carried by the
following vote:
Aye: 5 - Buchanan, Donovan, Elenbaas, Galloway, and Scanlon
Nay: 2 - Byrd, and Stremler
16. AB2025-765 Request authorization for the County Executive to enter into a grant agreement
between Whatcom County and Washington State Recreation and Conservation
Office Washington Wildlife and Recreation Forestland Preservation grant program for
the acquisition of a forestry conservation easement on the Canyon Creek Forest
property through the Conservation Easement Program (CEP) in the amount of
$500,000
Donovan reported for the Finance and Administrative Services Committee
and moved that the Contract be AUTHORIZED.
Councilmembers discussed the motion.
Donovan's motion that the Contract be AUTHORIZED carried by the
following vote:
Aye: 4 - Buchanan, Donovan, Galloway, and Scanlon
Nay: 3 - Byrd, Elenbaas, and Stremler
OTHER ITEMS
(From Council Finance and Administrative Services Committee)
1. AB2025-730 Request authorization for the County Executive to enter into a three-year contract
between Whatcom County and Correctional Healthcare Partners Inc. for the
provision of jail healthcare and juvenile detention nursing services, in the three-year
total amount of $22,896,000
Donovan reported for the Finance and Administrative Services Committee
and moved that the SUBSTITUTE Contract be AUTHORIZED.
Councilmembers discussed the motion and a suggestion to come back in six
to eighteen months to analyze the contract and how things are going.
Galloway stated the version that is before them is a substitute. She thanked
Jill Boudreau and the Executive's Office for all the work they have done to
see this contract through.
Jill Boudreau, Executive's Office, confirmed that this is a three-year
contract.
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Donovan stated this is obviously a critical need, but we are increasing our
costs $3.4 million a year over the current level. He stated the budget
adjustment accounts for one year and we probably do not really have a plan
going forward to cover that growing structural deficit unless we raise taxes
or come up with a commensurate $3.4 million in cuts to other services. He
stated part of his discomfort with the budget is that they are putting a lot of
eggs in the basket of a future council doing future things.
Elenbaas spoke about why he supports it.
Donovan's motion that the SUBSTITUTE Contract be AUTHORIZED
carried by the following vote:
Aye: 7 - Buchanan, Byrd, Donovan, Elenbaas, Galloway, Scanlon, and Stremler
Nay: 0
2. AB2025-770 Resolution approving the 2026 recommended convention center allocations for
tourism -related facilities and activities as defined through RCW 67.28.1816
Donovan reported for the Finance and Administrative Services Committee
and moved that the Resolution be APPROVED. The motion carried by the
following vote:
Aye: 7 - Buchanan, Byrd, Donovan, Elenbaas, Galloway, Scanlon, and Stremler
Nay: 0
Enactment No: RES 2025-037
3. AB2025-782 Request authorization for the Whatcom County Executive's Office to enter into a
lease agreement between Whatcom County and Ryanna LLC for the lease of office
and storage space for the Sheriffs Office at 4600 Ryzex Way, Bellingham
Donovan reported for the Finance and Administrative Services Committee
and moved that the Agreement be AUTHORIZED.
Donovan stated his concern is that they have funding for one year but if they
do not pass this tax, the next option is asking the sheriff to absorb $750,000
of cuts a year, and they are leaving that to a future council to determine. It
also has not been in front of the public very long and he has discomfort with
passing a lease that is directing funds to a former councilmember and
current Planning Commission member.
Elenbaas stated he thinks the need has been demonstrated. He spoke about
the cost and that they looked at other options, and stated not only is this
option feasible, it is hands down the best deal as far as their options are
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concerned. He stated there is also nothing inappropriate about the contract.
It is a great deal for the taxpayers and an even better deal for the Sheriff's
Department.
Aly Pennucci, Executive's Office, gave a history of how they got to this
point and how this building fits the specific needs they needed to fill.
Councilmembers discussed the motion and Pennucci answered whether this
new expense will be alleviating expenses they have in other areas.
Donovan's motion that the Agreement be AUTHORIZED carried by the
following vote:
Aye: 6 - Buchanan, Byrd, Elenbaas, Galloway, Scanlon, and Stremler
Nay: 0
Abstain: 1 - Donovan
(From Council Planning and Development Committee)
4. AB2025-769 Resolution approving recommendation on an application for open space current use
assessment
Elenbaas reported for the Planning and Development Committee and
moved that the Resolution be APPROVED.
He stated the committee passed it but they did talk about amending it, and
Councilmember Galloway has brought that tonight. He summarized the
discussion in committee. The proposal had enough points to qualify without
allowing public access. The Planning Commission asked for there to be
public access but the landowner was leery about it for liability's sake and to
protect habitat. The discussion tonight is about what kind of public access
the Council will require.
Galloway briefed the councilmembers on the substitute version.
Galloway moved to amend the motion and that they approve the substitute
resolution as presented.
The motion was seconded by Elenbaas.
Councilmembers discussed the proposed substitute with the following
people:
• Kimberly Thulin, Prosecuting Attorney's Office
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• Aly Pennucci, Executive's Office
• Collin Stevens, landowner
• Mark Personius, Planning and Development Services Department
Director
• Cathy Halka, Clerk of the Council
They discussed that Council would not have to approve the specific public
access plan that gets worked out between Planning staff and the property
owner, and making sure the language of the resolution is clear regarding the
Planning Commission's recommendation and the intent to allow only
limited public access.
Galloway's motion to amend the main motion carried by the following vote:
Aye: 5 - Galloway, Scanlon, Stremler, Buchanan, and Elenbaas
Nay: 0
Out of the Meeting: 2 - Donovan and Byrd
Elenbaas's motion that the SUBSTITUTE Resolution as presented be
APPROVED carried by the following vote:
Aye: 5 - Buchanan, Elenbaas, Galloway, Scanlon, and Stremler
Nay: 0
Temp Absent: 2 - Byrd, and Donovan
Enactment No: RES 2025-038
Motion approved to amend the motion (to approve) and that they approve the substitute resolution as presented.
COUNCIL APPOINTMENTS TO ADVISORY GROUPS
1. AB2025-732 Appointment to a vacancy on the Justice Project Oversight and Planning Committee,
EMS Paramedic Position, Applicant(s): Jonathan Oliveira
Galloway moved and Scanlon seconded that the Council Appointment
Requiring Introduction be APPOINTED. The motion carried by the following
vote:
Aye: 5 - Buchanan, Elenbaas, Galloway, Scanlon, and Stremler
Nay: 0
Temp Absent: 2- Byrd, and Donovan
2. AB2025-748 Appointment to a vacancy on the Public Health Advisory Board, applicant(s): Alan
Lifson
Galloway moved and Scanlon seconded that the Council Appointment be
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APPOINTED. The motion carried by the following vote:
Aye: 5 - Buchanan, Elenbaas, Galloway, Scanlon, and Stremler
Nay: 0
Temp Absent: 2 - Byrd, and Donovan
CONFIRMATION OF EXECUTIVE APPOINTMENTS TO ADVISORY GROUPS
1. AB2025-772 Request confirmation of the County Executive's appointment of Laura Hanna to the
Whatcom County Marine Resources Committee
Galloway moved and Scanlon seconded that the Executive Appointment be
CONFIRMED. The motion carried by the following vote:
Aye: 5 - Buchanan, Elenbaas, Galloway, Scanlon, and Stremler
Nay: 0
Temp Absent: 2 - Byrd, and Donovan
2. AB2025-774 Request confirmation of the County Executive's appointment of Tannis Peura to the
Whatcom County Behavioral Health Advisory Committee
Galloway moved and Scanlon seconded that the Executive Appointment be
CONFIRMED. The motion carried by the following vote:
Aye: 5 - Buchanan, Elenbaas, Galloway, Scanlon, and Stremler
Nay: 0
Temp Absent: 2- Byrd, and Donovan
ITEMS ADDED BY REVISION
There were no agenda items added by revision.
COMMITTEE REPORTS, OTHER ITEMS, AND COUNCILMEMBER UPDATES
Scanlon spoke about an idea to allow the food banks to use their 2026 funds
as soon as possible to help them for the short term.
Buchanan moved to request that the Executive prepare a 2025 budget
amendment, to include in the next supplemental budget ordinance scheduled
for introduction on November 18th, that will allow a contract amendment to
provide flexibility to the food banks to spend 2026 funding in 2025.
The motion seconded by Scanlon.
He stated it would be like front -loading their 2026 spending so they would
have 13 months to spend the funds as opposed to 12.
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Council Minutes - Final November 5, 2025
The County Council approved these minutes on December 9, 2025.
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Council Minutes - Final November 5, 2025
Aly Pennucci, Executive's Office, answered if the Administration would
need anything from Council if they were to amend the Healthy Children's
Fund contracts or if the Administration already has the authority to do that.
She stated they have the authority to do that because it would be a no -dollar
amendment and would not require new budget authority.
The motion carried by the following vote:
Aye: 5 - Buchanan, Elenbaas, Galloway, Scanlon, and Stremler
Nay: 0
Out of the Meeting: 2 - Byrd and Donovan
Councilmembers gave committee reports.
Cathy Halka, Clerk of the Council, stated that Councilmember Donovan, as
the chair of the Finance and Administrative Services Committee, is
designated in the new tort claim code to serve as a representative on the
Risk Management Working Group and he is unable to serve through the end
of the year. He would like to have the Council designate another council
member, as is permitted in code, to serve through the end of the year. Then
the new Finance Committee chair would serve in that position in the new
year.
Galloway moved to appoint Councilmembers Scanlon.
The motion was seconded by Buchanan.
The motion carried by the following vote:
Aye: 5 - Elenbaas, Galloway, Scanlon, Stremler, and Buchanan
Nay: 0
Out of the Meeting: 2 - Byrd and Donovan
MOTION 4
Motion approved 5-0 with Byrd and Donovan out of the meeting to request that the Executive prepare a 2025 budget
amendment, to include in the next supplemental budget ordinance scheduled for introduction on November 18th, that
will allow a contract amendment to provide flexibility to the food banks to spend 2026 funding in 2025.
MOTION 2
Motion approved 5-0 with Byrd and Donovan out of the meeting to appoint Councilmembers Scanlon to serve as a
representative on the Risk Management Working Group through the end of the year (after which the role will revert to
the Finance Committee chair).
ADJOURN
The meeting adjourned at 10:06 p.m.
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